Holiday weight gain is a common issue among your patients that can be a lot more serious than it sounds. While the holiday season is a time of celebration, joy, and indulgence, it’s also marked by calorie-rich foods and drinks, disrupted routines, and stressful situations. 

 

What’s the big deal about holiday weight gain?

 

No one wants to be a Scrooge, but as healthcare providers, we know that holiday weight gain is a topic worth discussing. Studies show that 50% of the total pounds Americans put on each year is gained between mid-November and mid-January, a short span of time—and one when obese patients are particularly vulnerable.

Bhutani S, Wells N, Finlayson G, et al. Change in eating pattern as a contributor to energy intake and weight gain during the winter holiday period in obese adults. Int J Obes (Lond). 2020;44(7):1586–1595.

 

 

Environmental exposure to food cues (such as cooking more), dining out, and vacations can contribute to the motivation to eat more through the winter holidays. 

 

Targeted interventions affect outcomes

 

When introducing the subject of potential weight gain during the holidays, use an approach that avoids placing blame or guilt. Ask your patients how they’re feeling about the holidays and whether they’re struggling to maintain healthy habits. 

 

By opening up the conversation, you can plant a seed that may help shift your patient’s awareness and mindset.

 

Research suggests that brief interventions can make a positive difference as long as they’re well-designed. A study in the British Medical Journal randomized 272 adults into two groups to test this theory.

Mason F, Farley A, Pallan M, et al. Effectiveness of a brief behavioural intervention to prevent weight gain over the Christmas holiday period: randomised controlled trial. BMJ. 2018;363:k4867.

The intervention group tracked their weight and was provided a list of 10 weight management tips. They were also given a handout detailing the physical activity equivalent required to burn off common holiday foods. The comparator group was provided with a more generalized healthy lifestyle brochure. 

 

 

You can set your patients up for success by encouraging them to “maintain, not gain” during the season. Consider suggesting some of the following goals:

• Balance intake: Fill up on healthier foods and enjoy smaller portions of treats.

• Be mindful: Savor each bite and stay mentally present during mealtimes.

• Check stress: Identify some coping strategies that don’t involve overindulging.

• Get active: Set a timer and get moving; short home workouts count and can make a difference.

• Plan ahead: Keep healthy foods readily available at home and when visiting others.

In addition, boosting accountability and support through the holiday season can help mitigate excessive weight gain. 

 

If possible, set up dedicated appointments or group sessions focusing on holiday weight management. Provide patients with materials with clear goals and interesting insights. Consider involving other healthcare professionals, such as nutritionists, psychologists, or fitness trainers, for comprehensive care and diverse perspectives to benefit your patients.